To paint a mural in Comer was something I’d been hoping to do “someday” for several years. I have delighted in this opportunity to brighten this blossoming corner of our town with the help and support of the community, and pray that it may continue to reflect the spirit of hope, peace, and belonging that is at work among us. Below is the statement that will be posted at the Farmer’s Market. For a full list and identification key of the specific birds I selected, click here.   Para español, haz clic aquí.

The mural beside the volleyball court at our Comer Farmer’s Market is inspired and sponsored by The Perch community, and designed by Tracy Newton, a neighbor at Jubilee Partners. Many thanks to friends and neighbors who painted a leaf on the tree!

The image features a broad collection of birds native to North America (especially native to our region; land of the Cherokee, Yuchi, and Muscogee), as well as birds native to Burma, Thailand, Central America, and other homelands of many Comer residents. The birds* reflect the array of colors and backgrounds in our neighborhood. As the birds flock in from the east at the dawn of a new day, so have many of us migrated to Comer to find rest, renewal, and community. Some birds are perching in the mulberry tree (a fruit tree native to North America, known for attracting a wide variety of birds), some are continuing on their journey, and some are returning. Wherever you are from and wherever you are on life’s journey, may you find yourself somewhere in this image of hope, peace, and belonging.

*Birds are not painted to scale